Linda Perry (who’s written songs for the likes of
P!nk,
Christina Aguilera, and
Gwen Stefani, as well as hit singles such as “What’s Up” for her own ‘90s band,
4 Non Blondes). At their first meeting (when Amai was only twelve years old), Perry was so immediately taken with Amai’s talent that she offered to serve as a mentor. The result is
I Can Go to Bed Whenever, Amai’s debut album (released in June), which Perry produced. But Amai didn’t need Perry’s help (or anyone else’s) with writing these songs – they are entirely her own, revealing a maturity and depth that belies her young age. Calling from her Los Angeles home, Amai talks about what inspires her, how she found her own distinctive sound, and that fateful first meeting with Perry.